“A Christmas Concert for Kenya” on Surrey City Hall’s Centre Stage theatre on Saturday, Dec. 3, presented by New Hope Therapeutic Society and directed by Deanna Wegenkittl-Baker. “Join us for a night filled with beautiful Christmas music to benefit over 100 children cared for and educated at St. Elizabeth Children Centre in Kisumu, Kenya. Enjoy the performances of talented local artists such as Eldon McBride and his choir Frontline Voices, singers Ava Carich and Tiffany Desrosiers, Spiral Dance Co. and many more.” Tickets: $15, 604-501-5566, Tickets.Surrey.ca.

Surrey Santa Parade of Lights: 11th annual event features big rigs lighted up on route through Surrey, in Cloverdale on Sunday, Dec. 4 from 5 to 7 p.m. “Santa comes to town escorted by a lighted convoy of Trucks, vintage cars, floats, marching groups, R/C, horses, boats, mascots and much more. Event has two primary charities: The Surrey Food Bank & Surrey Christmas Bureau, so were hoping that you can bring a donation to the parade.” Event hosted by Cloverdale BIA, 604-576-3155.

Big Rigs for Kids lighted truck parade on Sunday, Dec. 4 along University Drive in Surrey, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. “They will be stopped in front of the library for around an hour, from 7 until just after 8 p.m. for everyone to enjoy.” North Surrey Lions Club will be selling hot chocolate and hot dogs, with all proceeds going to the Surrey Christmas Bureau and Surrey Food Bank. Event host is Downtown Surrey BIA, 604-580-2321.

Seniors Christmas Dining Out Series hosted by the City of Surrey’s recreation department from Dec. 8 to 16. “Socialize with friends while enjoying Christmas festivities, a delicious meal and great entertainment that’s sure to bring out a sleigh full of holiday spirit. Bring your guests – the more the merrier this holiday season.” Events on Dec. 8 at Chuck Bailey Recreation Centre, on Dec. 9 at Cloverdale Recreation Centre, on Dec. 9 at Newton Seniors Centre, on Dec. 9 at Fleetwood Community Centre and on Dec. 16 at Guildford Recreation Centre (a Christmas luncheon with the Jammers). Register online or by telephone at 604-501-5100. Info: Surrey.ca/culture-recreation/21374.aspx.

“Grandma & Me Christmas Tea” event on Tuesday, Dec. 20 at Guildford Recreation Centre, 15105 105th Ave., Surrey, from 9:15 to 11:15 a.m. “Celebrate the Christmas season with your grandkids (ages 3 to 7 years) and join us for a morning of holiday festivities. Enjoy making a Christmas craft, decorating cookies and warming up with a cup of coffee, tea or hot chocolate. There will also be storytelling and a magic show presented by Surrey Libraries. Grandpas are welcome to join the fun too.” Cost per child is $7 (child must be accompanied by an adult), and cost per grandparent is $3. Pre-registration is required and we encourage participants to secure their spot before December 10. To register, call 604-501-5100.

FUNDRAISERS

Ryley and Chloe’s “Funraiser” spaghetti dinner to raise donations for Surrey Christmas Bureau, on Sunday, Nov. 26 at Knight & Day Restaurant, 9677 King George Blvd., from 5 to 7 p.m. Raffle of gift basket of prizes. Tickets for the dinner cost $12 and can be purchased at the Downtown Surrey BIA office in person or by calling 604- 580-2321. Also, Ryley, 7, and Chloe, 4, request all guests bring a toy or cash donation to give to the Christmas Bureau.

COMMUNITY

Newton Safety Breakfast presented by Newton BIA, on Tuesday, Nov. 29 from 8 to 9 a.m. at Fays Family Restaurant, 7380 King George Blvd., Surrey. “Is Newton safe? Discuss Surrey’s new Public Safety Strategy with Dr. Terry Waterhouse, Director of Public Safety Strategies.” Open to the community. Breakfast will be provided. Free admission.

Surrey Board of Trade toy drive benefiting Surrey Christmas Bureau on Sunday, Nov. 27 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. “For the month of November, we will be collecting unwrapped new toys. Can your business help us give back to the community and support our children, to ensure that those in need have that wonderful Christmas celebration? Bring your donations to our collection box at the Surrey Board of Trade office (101-14439 104th Ave., Surrey). For more information, contact Deanna at 604-581-7130 or at info@businessinsurrey.com.

PETS/ANIMALS

Pet photos with Santa at Urban Safari Rescue Society on Sunday, Nov. 27 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. “Bring your furry, fuzzy, feathery, scaly friend to Urban Safari and get a professional photo taken. A minimum donation will get you a digital file emailed to you, a 5x7 print to take home and a free visit to Urban Safari. All money raised goes directly toward the care and housing of our 350 unwanted exotic animals.” At 1395 176th St., South Surrey.

Seasonal Sizzle business reception hosted by Surrey Board of Trade on Wednesday, Dec. 7 at Sheraton Vancouver Guildford Hotel from 5 to 8 p.m. “Over 500 people attend this networking and trade show event annually. This year’s theme is ‘Christmas in Paradise,’ featuring live music and entertainment, delicious hors d’oeuvres and great networking.” Info: businessinsurrey.com or 604.634.0341.

“Transit and Transportation in Surrey” luncheon event with Surrey Mayor Linda Hepner and Peter Fassbender, Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development and Minister Responsible for TransLink, on Tuesday, Dec. 13 at Sheraton Vancouver Guildford Hotel. “Bring your questions and suggestions to this lively lunch dialogue.” A Surrey Board of Trade event, businessinsurrey.com or call 604-581-7130.

Trip to Dubai and Abu Dhabi organized by Surrey Board of Trade starting on April 3, 2017. Rate of $2,995 for a seven-day trip, for members of SBOT. “Come travel with the SBOT and explore Dubai and Abu Dhabi with like-minded business professionals and owners. The SBOT has worked diligently to set up industry tours in these cities. We are happy to customize your trip to include key business meetings, making this eligible for tax deductions.” Info: Businessinsurrey.com.

“Pinocchio: The Pantomime” brought to Surrey Arts Centre stage by FVGSS, a Musical Theatre Company, from Nov. 24 to Dec. 4, with show times at 7:30 p.m. on Wed/Thur/Fri and 2:30 on Sat/Sun. Tickets and info: 604-501-5566, FVGSS.org, Tickets.Surrey.ca.

“Call Mr. Robeson: A Life, With Songs” written and performed by Tayo Aluko in tribute to actor, singe rand civil-rights campaigner Paul Robeson, 8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 25 at Surrey City Hall’s Centre Stage. For tickets and info, call 604-501-5566 or visit Tickets.Surrey.ca.

“Amahl and the Night Visitors” show, a Christmas classic, produced by Young People’s Opera Society of B.C., from Friday, Nov. 25 to Sunday, Nov. 27 at Newton Cultural Centre. “The story of a poor crippled boy visited by the three kings on their way to see the baby Jesus.” Tickets $20/$15 via Eventbrite and at door. Info: Email yposbc@gmail.com.

“A Christmas Carol”: Imagine That! Productions stages a radio-theatre play, complete with live music and sound effects, from Dec. 2 to 4 at Clova Theatre in Cloverdale. “This adaptation of A Christmas Carol follows the original Dickens tale and takes audiences along on Ebenezer Scrooge’s transformational journey as four ghostly visitors lead him on a trip through Christmases past, present and future.” For tickets and info, visit Imaginethatplace.com.

“The Nutcracker” staged by Royal City Youth Ballet from Dec. 9 to 11 at Surrey Arts Centre’s main stage, with five show times over the three days. “This production , a holiday tradition for many, delights all ages with its beautiful sets and extravagant costumes that illuminate the magic of the toy soldiers, Sugar Plum Fairy, and a growing Christmas tree.” Tickets: Adult $40, Child/Youth/Senior (65+) $28. Info: 604-501-5566, Tickets.Surrey.ca.

“Ellie King’s Beauty and the Beast” traditional British panto produced by Royal Canadian Theatre Company, at Surrey Arts Centre from Dec. 16 to 26 on select dates. Comedy suitable for all ages. Tickets and info: 604-501-5566, Tickets.Surrey.ca, Rctheatreco.com.

“The Comic Strippers” adult-only show offers a male-stripper parody and improv comedy for audiences of all genders, on Jan. 28 at Surrey’s Bell Performing Arts Centre. “Semi undressed and completely unscripted, The Comic Strippers take off their shirts and take on your suggestions to create a whole new genre of comedy.” Tickets and info: Bellperformingartscentre.com, 604-507-6355, Thecomicstrippers.com.

FOOD/DRINKS

Ukrainian “soul food” – perogies, cabbage rolls and borscht – available for sale on the last Friday of each month as fundraiser at Ukrainian Cultural Centre, 13512 108th Ave., Surrey, from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. “Eat-in, take away, or ready for your freezer.” Info: call 604-531-1923 or 604-581-0313.

Surrey Fiddlers Old Time Dance takes place at Clayton Hall (18513 70th Ave., Surrey) on the first Thursday of every month, except July and August, from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. Admission is $4. For info, call 604-576-1066.

Jamming at Fleetwood: Golden-agers are invited to join group of senior musicians that meets every Thursday from 11:30 a.m. until 1 p.m., at 15996 84 Ave. “We play for the sheer pleasure of entertaining a dedicated audience who come in to listen or dance, every week. Lunch is available for purchase, and you can try your luck at winning a 50/50 draw.” Info: contact Mildred, email truderung37@gmail.com or call 604-789-5037.

Newton Seniors Centre Tennis Club seeks experienced, senior (55+) tennis players. “We are not a teaching club, so you must know how to play, serve and score.” For information, call Al or Sue at 604-594-8783, or Jan, 604-502-7844.

MARKETS

Surrey Art Gallery Association’s Heart to Home Holiday Market on Saturday, Nov. 26 (11 a.m. to 5 p.m.) and Sunday, Nov. 27 (noon to 4 p.m.) at Surrey Arts Centre. The Studio Theatre at the Surrey Arts Centre will be “transformed into a fun and festive market featuring fine art and handmade crafts by renowned local artists.” Free admission. For more info, call 604-501-5187.

The Cloverdale Market: “Your Weekly Treasure Hunt” in two buildings with 200 tables and 100+ outdoor spots, open every Sunday from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Cloverdale Fairgrounds, off 176th St. (Hwy 15) and 62nd Ave., Surrey. Info: 604-837-1676, Cloverdalemarket.ca.

North Delta Potters Guild Christmas Sale on Saturday, Dec. 10 at North Delta Recreation Centre from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., 11415 84th Ave. “Beautiful & unique works in clay all created by guild members. You are sure to find something special for someone special.” Info: 778-590-8003, email june.bergen.holt@gmail.com).

LIBRARY EVENTS

Fleetwood Cook Book Club meets bimonthly at Fleetwood Library on Mondays from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Schedule includes event on Dec. 5 (Cookie Swap). “If you enjoy sampling and sharing new dishes, grab your apron and sign up for the Fleetwood Cook Book Club. We pick the theme/books, and you select a recipe to make from that book, then we all get together to share a meal.” Call to register: 604-598-7346.

CALLS

Clayton Heights Optometry is looking to feature Local artists at office, 103A-19151 Fraser Hwy., Surrey. “Are you an artist looking for a place to display your art? We feature an artist every few months on our waiting area wall with complete info on the artist. If you would like your painting, drawing, or photographic art displayed, email us at claytonhtsoptometry@gmail.com for consideration.”

AUDITIONS

Panorama Children’s Choir, under the direction of Dolores Scott begins their new semester with a focus on World Rhythms. No auditions. Ages K-7 New members welcome Tuesday afternoons at 14853 60th Ave., Surrey. “This is a place to share your voice with friends and shine as one!” Call 604 595-6718 to register. Info: Doloresscott.com.

Maple Leaf Singers: “Meet new people, have fun, and reveal the song in your heart. Join the Maple Leaf Singers, a unique show chorus that includes singers from all parts of Metro Vancouver and performs at a variety of events. Baritone and bass voices particularly needed, but all are welcome. Learn more at Mapleleafsingers.com. Ask Anne Baird about joining at via email, information@mapleleafsingers.com.

VISUAL ART

“The Collage” exhibition by members of Surrey Photography Club at Newton Cultural Centre from Nov. 2 to 30. “The club meets twice per month at St. Helen’s Anglican Church in North Surrey. Meetings are held every second and fourth Monday evenings at 7 p.m. New members and guests are always welcome.” Info: Surreyphotographyclub.com.

Surrey Art Gallery: Until Dec. 4, the gallery delves into people’s changing relationship with objects through a cluster of exhibitions on the ‘still life’ genre of art, featuring works by Fiona Ackerman, Kelly Lycan, April Hickox, Jay Bundy Johnson and others. Gallery at Bear Creek Park, 88th Ave./King George Blvd. 604-501-5566, Surrey.ca/artgallery.

Surrey Urban Screen: Digital art shown on screen on side of building at Chuck Bailey Recreation Centre, at 13458 107A Ave. Exhibit can be viewed from 30 minutes after sunset until midnight. Info: 604-598-5898, Surreyurbanscreen.ca.

Surrey Knights Junior B hockey team plays home games at North Surrey Recreation Centre. For schedule of games and ticket information, visit Surreyknights.ca or call 604-534-1285.

Free swims sponsored by Westminster Savings, on Saturdays throughout the year. “Join us for our free family swims held once per month at each of our indoor pools. Free swims are part of Westminster Savings’ Project Better Balance.” Events are held at the North Surrey rec centre pool on the last Saturday of each month from 2 to 5 p.m., at South Surrey’s indoor pool on the first Saturday of each month from 1 to 4 p.m., and at the Surrey Sport & Leisure pool on the third Sunday of each month from 3 to 5 p.m.

GARDENS

Cloverdale Garden Club meets on the second Thursday of the month, from September to June, at Clayton Community Hall, 18513 70th Ave., Surrey. Annual membership is $20, drop-in fee is $3. For information, contact Nancy, 604-530-4197.

CLUBS/GROUPS

Surrey Singles Over 60: “Are you interested in meeting new people and having fun dancing, bowling, cards, dinners, picnics etc.? We are accepting new members based in the North Surrey/North Delta area, so call 604-594-2860 and ask for Lyla or Doug or Roy at 604-593-1918.”

North Delta Newcomers and Friends is a ladies social club. “Our fall activities are in full swing. If you are new to the area or would just like to meet some new people, please call and arrange to attend some of them (morning walks, coffee times, stitch and chat, card games, and par 3 golf, potlucks and our monthly dinners.” Info: call Kathy at 604-583-3691 or Pam at 604-597-7974.

CFUW (Canadian Federation of University Women) North Delta/Surrey is a club open to all women graduates, students and associates who support the mission and ideals of CFUW, which provides annual scholarships and bursaries to deserving female graduates who are going on to university. The club meets monthly from September to June. Contact Heather at 604-591-7678 or Eleanor at 604-589-3631.

NETWORKING

Valley Women’s Network Luncheons heldon last Wednesday of every month at Eaglequest Golf Club, 7778 152nd St., Surrey. Event fee $27, or $30 at door for non-members. “Come share your business successes, goals with us and let us help one another.” Info: Valleywomensnetwork.com, 604-940-9355.

VOLUNTEERS

Canadian Disaster Animal Response Team (CDART) hosts volunteer info event on Wednesday, Nov. 30 at 8911 152nd St., Surrey, starting at 6:30 p.m., in the St. John Ambulance building. “We encourage and welcome anyone interested in learning about the organization and its varied and numerous volunteer opportunities, to attend.” Info: Contact Catherine, catherine.d.whitfield@gmail.com, 604-726-6098.

The Surrey Board of Trade seeks volunteers for three of its advocacy teams (Agriculture Team, Environment Team and Tourism, Arts & Culture Team). Contact anne@businessinsurrey.com or call 604-581-7130.

Surrey Art Gallery Association seeks volunteers for its gift shop at its Bear Creek Park facility. “If you enjoy meeting new people and local artists, being around unique and finely crafted artworks by artists from around the Lower Mainland, this is the place for you.” Contact Joan Owen, 604-531-8118.

Cancer: Thriving and Surviving Program, on Tuesdays from 9:30 a.m. to noon at Elim Village - The Oasis, 9008 158th St., Surrey. “A self-management program designed for people who have completed treatment and are living with or have been affected by cancer. Classes are highly participative, where mutual support and success build the participants’ confidence in their ability to manage their health and maintain active and fulfilling lives. The workshop is facilitated by two trained lay leaders, many who are cancer survivors themselves. Caregivers are also welcome to attend.” Info: Selfmanagementbc.ca.

Nar Anon: “If you have a family member or friend struggling with addiction problems, then Nar Anon may be the place for you. We meet on Tuesdays at Bethany-Newton United Church on the corner of 60th and 148th St. in Surrey. Meetings start at 7:30 p.m.” Info: Nar-anon.org.

Mental Health Family and Friends Info Night: “Support and information for friends and family of people struggling with mental illness. New members are always welcome,” on first and third Thursday of every month at Shirley Dean Pavilion, 9634 King George Blvd., Surrey (East entrance). For more information, call Katie: 604-585-5666, ext. 772534.

Tao Healing Group (formerly Soul Power) Surrey: “Learn simple but powerful self-healing techniques for any aspect of life, with Certified Healers and Teachers. Receive free healing and blessings.” Tuesday evenings at 7pm, Surrey City Centre Library, 10350 University Dr., “Everyone is welcome, and no previous experience is necessary.” By donation, info: 778-379-9920.

Canadian Mental Health Association (Delta) offers an Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) Support Group for individuals with OCD and/or friends and family, on first Wednesday of every month, 7 to 9 p.m., 11715 72nd Ave., North Delta (house). Call 604-943-1878 to register.

EDUCATION

Surrey English Language Centre provides free English language classes for new immigrants to Canada with proof of permanent residence, age 17 or older. “We offer full-time and evening LINC classes year-round, funded by Citizenship and Immigration Canada.” To register, call 604-582-7479, email selc@shaw.ca, visit 9801 King George Blvd. (suites #111 and #350), Surrey.